Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and
Isaiah 40:1-8
cry to her that she has served her term, that her penalty is paid, that she has
received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.” vss. 1-2
There are times when we want to throw up our hands in despair and cry out,
“Enough, O God, I’ve had enough, and I’m tired of being treated like refuse in this
broken world.” Those moments don’t come to everyone but we all know people who have gotten more than their share of trouble in the course of life. They’ve endured loss, illness, death, brokenness…and just when it seems like they’re about to break, something else happens. It may be that they haven’t lived exemplary lives—probably none of us have. But no one deserves the trouble that comes to some. The prophet was charged by God to bring words of comfort to folks such as these, and he did as he was told. And that’s our call too! When people have been beaten up by life they don’t need lectures or pity, they need tender words of comfort from friends who care deeply. And we can do that! There’s something about this season that exposes the pain and hurt that lies deep within, and if we can speak tenderly to these wounded folks, it will mean more than any gift we could buy them. God isn’t out to get anyone–God brings comfort, and not more pain.
Thought for the Day: What words of comfort do I need to hear?
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